Spasticity

Spasticity is a condition in which certain muscles continuously contract. This contraction causes stiffness and tightness of the muscles and can interfere the normal daily activities like movement and speech. Spasticity is typically caused by damage to the portion of the brain or spinal cord that controls voluntary movement. The damage causes an imbalance in neural signals that controls the muscles.

The condition negatively affects the muscles and joints of the extremities, and is particularly harmful to growing children. Many people with co-existing disorders like cerebral palsy (CP) and multiple sclerosis (MS) also experience spasticity.

Spasticity may be as mild as tightness in the muscles or severe enough to produce painful, uncontrollable spasms, most commonly in the arms and legs. The condition can also cause lower back pain and a feeling of tightness around the joints.

There are several different treatment options available for spasticity, depending on its nature and severity. These include physical and occupational therapy, oral medications, botulinum toxin (BTA) injections, and in some cases, surgery. Talk with Dr. Johnson about the right treatment options for you.